After a loved one or close friend dies in Walworth County, you may not know what to do. During this time of grief, it can be extremely difficult to thoroughly address the details of an estate. Clients often ask us what they need to do after the death of a loved one in Walworth County. You will find the following information beneficial when addressing the estate of a deceased loved one.
Who Inherits When a Loved One Dies With a Will in Walworth County?
If someone dies with a Last Will and Testament, they are said to have died “testate.” The Last Will and Testament describes who inherits the deceased’s assets. Each beneficiary and what item(s) they will inherit are listed in detail. The Last Will and Testament also describes who is named Executor, the person that will handle the deceased’s estate.
Who Inherits When a Loved One Dies Without a Will in Walworth County?
If someone dies without a Last Will and Testament, they are said to have died “intestate.” The State of Wisconsin‘s succession laws govern who inherits from an intestate estate. The deceased’s assets could end up going to a family member that is estranged or to someone they have not spoken to in years. To ensure your assets are dispersed according to your wishes, it is imperative that you create a Last Will and Testament.
Immediate Actions to Take When a Loved One Dies in Walworth County
1. Notify relatives and friends
2. Notify the physician
3. Notify the coroner’s office
4. Follow up with organ donations, if appropriate
5. Arrange for the care of minors, if applicable
6. Arrange for the care of pets, if applicable
7. Protect assets by locking the house, vehicles, business, and placing valuables in a safe place
8. Contact decedent’s attorney to assist with handling the estate
9. Check insurance policies
10. Make funeral arrangements
11. File the appropriate forms with the Walworth County Register in Probate within 30 days of your loved one’s passing
Contact Our Walworth County Estate Planning Attorney
If you need assistance creating a Last Will and Estate, contact our Walworth County estate planning attorney. We will assist you with creating a Last Will and Testament that distributes your assets according to your wishes. Obtain peace of mind regarding your estate by contacting our Walworth County estate planning attorney today. Our Walworth County estate planning attorney can be reached via phone at 262-725-0175 or via email using our website’s contact page. Wynn at Law, LLC has estate planning offices in various locations throughout the Walworth County area, including: Lake Geneva, Delavan, Muskego, and Salem.
*The content and material on this web page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
